Wind chill is a measure of the combined effects of wind and temperature. Temperature alone does not give a true indication of the impact of the cold. In order to effectively gauge the difference between temperature and the impact of the cold, a wind-chill scale must be used. The chart in Appendix A is a simple and practical guide showing the conditions under which cold weather is dangerous and when exposed flesh is likely to freeze. Soldiers must be familiar with the wind-chill chart to recognize these dangers.

1-2. EFFECTS OF COLD WEATHER ON MILITARY OPERATIONS

Cold has a numbing effect on skin, which hinders task performance. This must be considered when accomplishing such routine tasks as vehicle maintenance, and making and striking bivouac areas.

When conditions become extreme and the temperature drops, the problem of survival becomes critical. Under these circumstances soldiers may tend to withdraw emotionally, not wanting to leave the warmth and protection of their shelter or tent. The remedy is physical activity. Try to remain alert and active. Execution of all military duties and the fast and proper performance of group tasks are vital.

COCOON-LIKE EXISTENCE

Many soldiers, when wearing several layers of clothing and with their heads covered, tend to withdraw within themselves and assume a cocoon-like existence. When so clothed, many soldiers' hearing and field of vision are restricted; they tend not to notice their surroundings. Their thinking and reasoning become sluggish.

INDIVIDUAL AND GROUP HIBERNATION

This process is characterized by individuals seeking the comfort of sleeping bags, and by the group remaining in tents or other shelter. Guard and security measures may be neglected, jeopardizing the security and safety of the unit.

1-3. OVERCOMING THE COLD

The body must be protected. It must be kept clean, dry, and warm, with normal body processes maintained. Rest and nourishment are vital. The right approach to cold-weather living will keep you healthy and get you through challenging times. There are four basic rules to follow:

KEEP IN SHAPE

Cold-weather clothing and equipment are heavy, and add weight to your normal equipment load. This hinders movement in snow and uses too much energy. The importance of being in excellent physical condition cannot be overemphasized. Your unit must have a tough, challenging, demanding physical training program.

DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

Water may be hard to get, so you may drink less than you need or only when you are thirsty. This will not give you the water needed to avoid dehydration. Drink plenty of water (at least 3.5 quarts per day) to avoid dehydration and fatigue. DO NOT eat snow as a water substitute; it will lower your body's core temperature.

EAT TO KEEP FIT

Regular, nutritious hot food is needed for top performance. You must eat, even when you are not hungry.

KEEP A GOOD ATTITUDE

You will meet many new challenges, but none that cannot be overcome. Your attitude toward the cold will reflect those of your leaders.

1-4. POSITIVE LEADERSHIP AND THE RIGHT ATTITUDE

Most soldiers, after 3 to 4 weeks of cold-weather training, will be able to cope with the environment. Some soldiers may not be as skilled as others, but most will succeed.

Set an example for other soldiers. Winter conditions can be frightening, trying to meet challenges you have never met before. Any mistake could make you a casualty. Aggressive leadership actions that overcome the challenges of the environment are essential to mission accomplishment.

There are two enemies to overcome in northern operations: the enemy soldier and the cold. The first step in defeating either enemy is having the right attitude. The cold can defeat you psychologically if you are not aware of the symptoms of a poorly prepared unit. The following are suggestions on how to defeat the cold:

• If you become depressed or moody, or do not want to talk, force yourself to get involved with others. Do not leave out the weaker soldier.

• If you find it hard to remember things you have been taught, review orders and drills.

• Remind soldiers that their jobs are to close with, engage, and gut the enemy, and that weapons and equipment must be kept in fighting order. Operations in a northern environment can easily become a camping trip with serious consequences. You must avoid this common ambush.

• Cold weather may slow down the following of an order, but it is not an excuse for not doing it.

• Cold weather may make tasks harder and take longer to do, but it will not make them impossible. With knowledge, proper equipment, and proper training you can overcome the cold and be successful in combat.